About CATHEDRAL ROCK PICNIC AREA
Overview Cathedral Rock Group Picnic Area is located at the top of beautiful Kyle Canyon in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, just 30 miles from Las Vegas. Visitors enjoy hiking, horseback riding and scenic driving in this forested desert oasis.Recreation No trails can be accessed through the Picnic Area at the present time. Trails may be found at the Forest Service Trailhead on the other end of Cathedral Rock Picnic Area. The new Spring Mountain Visitor Center is a 15 minute drive down the canyon, with guided hikes and educational programs.Facilities The picnic area is for day-use only. Two group sites are available, both with large picnic tables, serving tables, grills and cement site pads. Parking areas are paved. Vault toilets, drinking water, trash collection are provided.Natural Features The Spring Mountains National Recreation Area is a beautiful island in the desert, brimming with breathtaking scenery and diverse flora and fauna. The Bristlecone pine, the world's oldest organism, and the rare Mount Charleston blue butterfly are both found within the Spring Mountains. Over 100 springs create the namesake for the mountain range, creating the perfect place to escape the heat of the city. The picnic area is set among a forest of ponderosa pine, white fir, aspen, mountain mahogany and Gambel oak, which provides partial shade. The area affords views of the surrounding Spring Mountains. Nearby Attractions More than 60 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails crisscross the area; two trails allow mountain biking. Rock climbing, picnicking and scenic driving are popular activities.
How to Get There
From Las Vegas, Nevada, take Highway 95 north to junction with Highway 157/Kyle Canyon. Turn left and travel approximately 21 miles to the picnic area at the end of the highway.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to CATHEDRAL ROCK PICNIC AREA
Heading to CATHEDRAL ROCK PICNIC AREA? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for CATHEDRAL ROCK PICNIC AREA?
No central reservation system listed for CATHEDRAL ROCK PICNIC AREA. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232163) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to CATHEDRAL ROCK PICNIC AREA?
From Las Vegas, Nevada, take Highway 95 north to junction with Highway 157/Kyle Canyon. Turn left and travel approximately 21 miles to the picnic area at the end of the highway.
How do I contact CATHEDRAL ROCK PICNIC AREA?
You can reach the park at phone: 702-872-5486 or email: .com.
References & Official Resources
